Warner Park Lights Up for the Fourth

Councilman Dennis P. Zine’s July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza celebrated the Fourth of July in style.

It was the Extravaganza's 11th year at Warner Park and the event, sponsored by Keyes Automotive and produced by the Valley Cultural Center, featured more than 20 venders, in addition to live music and celebrity guests.

American Idol top 24 finisher Jen Hirsh helped kick-off the event with her rendition of the National Anthem, and then Los Angeles Councilman Dennis P. Zine, dressed in a festive Hawaiian shirt, made remarks. 

"This is a great fireworks gathering," Zine said. "When I was first elected I said we want fireworks here in the West San Fernando Valley, and 11 years later we have the continuing growth of this with the great folks that come out to it."

Congressman Brad Sherman and Mayor Villaraigosa also stood up and paid homage to the troops in attendance.

"Freedom isn't free," Sherman said. "It's purchased for us by our servicemen and women who are in uniform today and by the veterans who served."

National Radio Hall of Fame member and Los Angeles legend Charlie Tuna was introduced as the master of ceremonies, and then the microphone was turned over to Horace Heidt Jr.'s Big Band and Friends, which played patriotic and jazz music throughout the night. 

Keyes Automotive Group, the main sponsor of the event, set up a car display featuring the Nisan Ultima, Leaf, Cadilac and Civic. They also gave away yellow beach balls to those in attendance.

"We try to give everyone a beach ball," Stacey Siegel, director of corporate and public affairs for Keyes Automotive said. "We have 3,000 to give away today which will be gone by the end of the night. It gives kids who are waiting for the fireworks something to do."

Siegel said Keyes was proud to serve as a sponsor.

"These really are the best fireworks and this is a great community event, we love being involved with it," Seigel said. 

Julie Annette, who came to the show with her boyfriend first heard about it through word of mouth.

"We love it," Annette said. "We've been here for a couple of years. We couldn't believe they were free. We came out and found out there were concerts all year long. So we attend what we can. It's great coming out and enjoying the outdoors and the beautiful weather."

Guadalupe Navarro has been bringing her children to the show for many years.

"I come for the family environment, it's safe, it's free." Navarro said. "We got here at 4:00. We've been playing with the beach balls and walking around to see all the venders."

Army representative Justin Bronson was also in attendance, giving away American flags to people walking around.

"I was born and raised here," Bronson said. "I love it, I'll miss it when I go to Louisiana, but its great to be out here tonight."